Day: April 27, 2014

Crackdown on fireworks in derby build-up

EasterRd

Police have warned fans not to try to smuggle fireworks into the stadium ahead of today’s  Edinburgh derby at Easter Road.

Fans will be searched and cordons and a specially trained dog will be used to help identify anybody carrying illegal items into the stadium. Police say “robust action” will be taken against anybody caught with flares or fireworks.

The warning follows previous incidents at Scottish matches where flares, fireworks and smoke bombs have been set off.

Superintendent Liz McAinsh, who is in charge of the policing operation today, said: “We recognise that the majority of supporters are well behaved, however there are a small minority who in the past have put themselves and others in danger by throwing fireworks or flares.

“Anyone who is caught with a flare or firework can expect to be arrested, either at the time, or as a result of a post-match investigation. And as well as receiving a criminal conviction, they may very well find themselves being banned from attending future matches throughout the country.”

You’ve been warned …

Spartans in the running for national award

charity-awards-so-whos-your-favourite

One of North Edinburgh’s best known and most respected community organisations has been short-listed for a national award. The Spartans Community Football Academy is one of thirty projects from across the country in the running in this year’s Scottish Charity Awards – and you can vote for your favourite in the People’s Award.

Organised and staged by the Scottish Community and Voluntary Organisation (SCVO), the awards celebrate all that is best in Scotland’s third sector, recognising our country’s most innovative and effective people and organisations

Spartans is one of thirty organisations to have progressed to the final round of the Scottish Charity Awards, and an impressive ‘not so shortlist’ includes major national organisations, community groups, partnership projects and individuals who have channelled their energies into supporting their communities and making Scotland a better place to live.

spartans

The Spartans Community Football Academy (above) has become a key part of the fabric of north Edinburgh, offering sport, education and leisure opportunities to thousands of children and young people from North Edinburgh and beyond. Based at Ainslie Park, SCFA is succinctly summed up by Alastair Davis, the chief executive of Social Investment Scotland: “we never fail to be impressed, inspired and overwhelmed by the impact of Spartans. Their quality, dedication and passion sets them apart”. SCFA has been nominated in the Sporting Chance category.

Joining Spartans on the shortlist is another great local project, Leith-based The Junction (below). The Junction youth group and Port of Leith Housing Association got together to create purpose-built – and very popular – new premises for young people aged 12-21, offering counselling, health advice and support to young people.

junction

For a full list of nominees and to vote for your favourite project in The People’s Award visit  www.scvo.org.uk/charity-awards 

Twitter user? It’s #ScotCharityAwards 

The glittering awards ceremony, hosted by Kaye Adams, takes place at Edinburgh’s Assembly Rooms on 5 June. Good luck to all the candidates – but really, you’re all winners already.